Jonathan Nwokpor
The investigation into the alleged misbehaviour of certain Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) officials has been ordered by Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
Remember how Moyo Okediji, an African art professor at the University of Texas, Austin, in the United States, said on Facebook on December 12 that he was “extorted and robbed” of more than $500 at the Seme border when he arrived in Nigeria via Ghana?
Okediji recounted that he was stopped by some NIS agents for a search and that they demanded $40 from him as payment for using an expired Nigerian passport.
Okediji claimed that after giving them the cash, he realised that $500 was gone from his suitcase.
The professor claimed that on the same day that he arrived at Mile 2, FESTAC axis of Amuwo-Odofin LGA, Lagos, he was also harassed and had some police officers grab his documents.
The NIS spokesperson, Aridegbe Adedotun, responded to the development in a statement on Saturday, stating that the agency would change certain borders to guarantee seamless operations.
The interior minister was “displeased with the alleged unprofessional activities at the Seme border,” according to Caroline Adepoju, comptroller-general of NIS, and she has ordered quick action to find the offenders.
The officials in question will suffer “severe consequences” if the accusations prove to be accurate, according to her.
The CG went on to say that in order to correct any errors, she will personally supervise the changes that are being implemented at the borders.
“The CGI expresses her dismay at the alleged behaviour and wants to assure the public that immediate steps are being taken to investigate the matter thoroughly. The NIS is committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and Service to the nation,” the statement reads.
“In response to these allegations, the NIS is implementing changes at our borders to ensure the smooth passage of migrants without compromising national security. The Comptroller General oversees these changes to address any shortcomings and reinforce a culture of accountability within the Service.”
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